New York Domestic and International Adoptions Lawyer

One of the most rewarding fields in the practice of law is adoptions. It is an adventure for those embarking on the international realm and fulfilling for those seeking the domestic route. The Law Offices of Barbera & McElhone, PC represent New York individuals and families throughout Nassau County and Suffolk County, who wish to pursue a child through adoption. Contact the firm for a free initial consultation.

Stepparent Adoptions

One of the more common reasons for adoption is the entrance of a stepparent into a family. Oftentimes parents and children desire their last names to be the same, and it is a fairly simple procedure to make that wish a reality. There are procedures that must be followed and paperwork that must be completed prior to petitioning the courts for a stepparent adoption. The attorneys at Barbera & McElhone will work to build and present a solid case to persuade the judge to grant your adoption request.

International Adoption Assistance

In most instances involving international adoption, the files of the birth parents are sealed and no information is given to the adoptive parents or the child. Once you have established a relationship with an adoption agency, we can assist you in filing the necessary and sometimes-complex paperwork. However, international adoptions require much more official paperwork than domestic adoption ones. As adoption lawyers, the attorneys at Barbera & McElhone will handle the paperwork and details of any adoption from beginning to end.

Re-Adoption in the United States

For international adoptions, the process is legalized in the court of the country where the child originates. Although it is not required, many couples choose to re-adopt the child here in the United States. The re-adoption process facilitates the ease in which original paperwork may be obtained. Once a re-adoption is completed, a new birth registration is issued by the state; that birth certificate stands in the place of the foreign one and can be utilized in its stead, negating the need to apply internationally for any documentation later required by the child.

If a re-adoption is desired, it is best to apply quickly as possible upon returning to the United States. Most of the same paperwork used in an international adoption can be used for a domestic re-adoption if done in a timely fashion, saving the family both time and money.

Complimentary Consultation

For all of your family law needs, call the Long Island law firm of Barbera & McElhone to discuss your case with an attorney during a free initial consultation. Ms. Barbera has intimate knowledge of the adoption process, and has facilitated the adoption of many children. Contact the firm by telephone by calling 631-791-9693.